Apple has just seeded the first beta build of OS X 10.8.3 Mountain Lion to developers. As is always the case with beta software from Apple, the initial build is only available to those who are enrolled on the official OS X developer program and can be downloaded directly from the Mac Dev Center immediately.
The just-released 10.8.3 build has been assigned the 12D32 build number and comes hot on the heels of rumors speculating that the public is about to see an official release of the delayed iTunes 11 software, as well as a new beta of iOS 6.1 for the iPhone, iPod touch, iPad and the Apple TV unit. In a similar fashion to the recent software update for the iPhone 5, Apple is requiring developers to download and install an OS X Software Seed Configuration Utility before being able to access the 10.8.3 beta.
We have known for quite some time that the beta would be dropping any time soon, with Apple taking the steps at the end of last month to invite individuals to the seeding program for the software, but it is only now that it has been released.
As part of the beta release, a number of focus areas are being looked at, including AirPlay, AirPort, Game Center and graphics drivers. The build also features a number of known issues with Safari 6.0.2, as well as distorted graphics when quick-switching between running apps using the Command+Tab shortcut.
It always represents an extremely exciting time when Apple takes the opportunity to push out beta builds of either iOS or OS X. With the release of Lion and Mountain Lion, we have seen a large shift in the way the company is thinking about the different operating systems, so we are always keen to see if any of the new updates or enhancements can give us an insight into the company’s next software direction. Those who are lucky enough to have a paid OS X developer account can head on over to the Mac Dev Center and download the official beta right now for testing and to provide that all-important feedback to Apple.
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